Brandon reconstruction works

Two severe wet seasons, as well as Yasi – the biggest cyclone ever to hit Queensland – certainly took their toll on the Bruce Highway through the centre of Brandon (also known as Drysdale Street). Residents of Burdekin, approximately 85 kilometres south of Townsville, were regularly disturbed by heavy vehicles driving past on the uneven pavement, which often caused their houses to vibrate. Some also complained of vehicle damage from the many potholes and pieces of loose gravel on the road.

There was, therefore, generally positive feedback from the local community when work began in July 2011 on a $7.2 million project to reconstruct a 1.7 kilometre section of the highway. RoadTek carried out the works, which were funded under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA), jointly funded by the Commonwealth and State governments.

The project, which sustained 76 jobs, was completed in early 2012 – on time and on budget. The job required approximately 2,800 tonnes of asphalt and more than 150 cubic metres of concrete. Locals have reported a huge reduction in noise and vibrations thanks to the smooth new road surface.

The entire project team worked tirelessly to develop and execute a project that provided value for money and excellence within the significant constraints presented by a job on the national highway in an urban area. The project met community expectations, and the team received some excellent feedback (see example below).

Email from Brandon resident to TMR community engagement team

My mother and I would like to acknowledge the work that has been performed around Sexton Street and Tapiolas Road since the road works commenced in Brandon. The construction crews and traffic controls have been courteous and professional. The construction crews have always ensured that they have left the area clean and clear, also ensuring that the areas that have been disturbed have been watered on a regular basis. So please pass on our thanks.

I would also like to acknowledge your continued updates during the construction period and contact during times of disruption to our access to our property. We both look forward to the end product which will far outweigh any minor inconveniences we may have experienced or continue to experience.